Free 3-DAY Shipping!*

Effective Hemorrhoid Treatment Suppositories Guide

Hemorrhoid.com By Hemorrhoid.com | July 24, 2024

Did you know more than half of adults over 50 suffer from hemorrhoids1? This common issue causes big discomfort, affecting many people’s lives1. For relief, many turn to rectal suppositories. They work fast and focus where the problem is.

Hemorrhoids cause swelling in the anal and rectal areas2. They can be inside or outside. Suppositories melt inside the rectum to bring medicine directly to the sore spot. They help ease pain and cut down swelling. You can find many kinds, including over-the-counter and stronger ones from a doctor. Some natural options exist too, like those with coconut oil and witch hazel, but might not work as well3.

Using suppositories can make mild to moderate hemorrhoids better in a few days1. They use ingredients like painkillers and things that fight swelling. These treatments help a lot but won’t cure hemorrhoids for good. They’re great for lessening swelling and making people more comfortable1.

Key Takeaways

Understanding Hemorrhoids and Their Symptoms

Hemorrhoids are when veins in the rectum or anus swell and get inflamed. They’re uncomfortable but manageable with treatments like anal fissure suppositories. Knowing the types and symptoms is key for tackling them effectively.

Types of Hemorrhoids

There are two kinds: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids are inside the rectum. They hurt less because that area has fewer nerves. External hemorrhoids are under the skin around the anus. They cause more itching, irritation, and pain45. Things like pregnancy and not moving much can make you more likely to get them5.

Common Symptoms

Hemorrhoids make you feel discomfort and itchiness. You might also see bright red blood on toilet paper or in your stool. External ones often itch and irritate more. Internal ones can be painful but aren’t always obvious45. Over-the-counter suppositories can help with swelling and pain4. Symptoms like pain when sitting, bleeding, and swelling also hint at hemorrhoids5.

About 1 in 20 people in the U.S. deal with hemorrhoids. It gets more common as people age, especially after 505. Using suppositories with hydrocortisone or witch hazel helps. Apply them two to four times daily for a week to lessen discomfort4. They’re really good for internal hemorrhoids because they get the medicine right where it’s needed.

Making changes like eating more fiber and not straining can quickly ease symptoms5. For keeping them away, follow directions for anal fissure and anti-inflammatory suppositories. They’re very helpful.

How Hemorrhoid Treatment Suppositories Work

Hemorrhoid treatment suppositories are put into the rectum. There, they slowly melt, letting the medicine go right where it’s needed. This method is great for reaching internal hemorrhoids directly. The medicine in these soothing suppositories works to ease pain, swelling, and itching. It does this by lowering inflammation and forming a protective layer6.

There are mostly three kinds of hemorrhoid treatment suppositories. Analgesic suppositories help by numbing the pain. Vasoconstrictors, like phenylephrine in products such as Preparation H, make blood vessels smaller to lessen swelling67. Then there are protective suppositories. These have ingredients like zinc oxide and cocoa butter. They cover the hemorrhoids with a barrier that stops irritation and helps heal61.

People usually use suppositories two to four times daily for a week. This provides short-term relief from symptoms like pain, swelling, and itching17. Relief starts soon after using the suppository as the medication absorbs slowly7. However, it’s key to remember that these are not a lasting fix for ongoing hemorrhoids. For chronic or serious cases, seeing a health professional is recommended61.

Type Function Common Ingredients
Analgesics Numbing nerve endings to alleviate pain Lidocaine
Vasoconstrictors Shrinking blood vessels to reduce swelling Phenylephrine (e.g., Preparation H)
Protective Forming a barrier to prevent irritation Zinc oxide, cocoa butter (e.g., Calmol)

Types of Hemorrhoid Treatment Suppositories

There are many kinds of hemorrhoid treatment suppositories available. You can find over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, prescription medications, and even natural remedies. Knowing about each type will help you choose the right one.

OTC Suppositories

OTC suppositories are easy to get and use. For instance, Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Suppositories help reduce swelling by shrinking blood vessels8. Yet, they might raise your blood pressure and cause bleeding8. Calmol suppositories protect the anus with zinc oxide and cocoa butter8. Another choice, Anusol-HC, has hydrocortisone for itching and swelling but may change skin color and cause burning8. You can buy these remedies at pharmacies or online.

Prescription Suppositories

For worse symptoms, there are prescription-strength suppositories. Anucort-HC can reduce inflammation effectively98. However, it might cause skin issues, pain, and dryness98. Always talk to your doctor before using prescription options. They can make sure it’s right for you and minimize side effects.

Herbal and Home Remedies

Natural remedies are softer and use gentler ingredients. You can make your own suppositories from coconut oil. Unlike medicated options, natural treatments like Thena Natural Wellness Organic Sitz Bath Soak are very soothing10. It has Epsom salt, sea salt, and magnesium oils10. Motherlove Postpartum Rhoid Balm is great for new moms. It uses witch hazel and calendula for fast relief10.

Best Practices for Using Hemorrhoid Suppositories

To make the most of your hemorrhoid suppository treatment, it’s important to follow some best practices. This guide on hemorrhoid treatment suppositories will help you get the best results possible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, the suppository should be firm. If it’s too soft, a short time in the fridge will make it right. Hemorrhoid suppositories are designed for easy use with their bullet shape11. For effective application, it needs to go about 1 inch into the rectum1112.

Stay still for about 15 minutes after putting the suppository in. This helps it dissolve properly11. Try not to use the bathroom for at least an hour to let the medicine work fully, as you’ll find in hemorrhoid treatment suppositories13.

Following the recommended dose is key to avoiding problems like irritation or inflammation13.

Tips for Optimal Use

For the best results, keep your suppositories cool and dry13. Since anti-inflammatory suppositories work fast by entering the bloodstream directly, timing matters12.

Watch out for any mild irritation or allergic reactions. Stop using them and talk to a doctor if issues arise. Also, those pregnant or breastfeeding need medical advice before using13.

Keep to a regular dosing schedule and don’t double up on missed doses13. By following these guidelines, the benefits of rectal suppositories will be maximized for more effective treatment.

Conclusion

Suppository use is a strong option for treating internal hemorrhoids. Products like Revivol-XR offer targeted relief. They also tackle symptoms that creams might not reach. A high-fiber diet can help too, reducing bleeding and discomfort14. But, using the right suppository correctly is key for the best outcomes.

A study with 105 patients showed no big differences in results from using CQ-AP versus other suppositories. It didn’t matter the patient’s age, gender, how long they had hemorrhoids, or if they were constipated15. Compliance with using the suppositories was high, at 97.4%. Most were happy with how easy they were to use and how quickly they worked16. These findings highlight the success of following proper suppository use guidelines.

Seeing a doctor for a personal treatment plan is a smart move if store-bought options aren’t enough. Those who use suppositories correctly often see a big drop in pain and faster healing. For advice on effective treatments, look to the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons and Hemorrhoid.com14.

FAQ

What are hemorrhoid treatment suppositories?

Hemorrhoid treatment suppositories are designed to be inserted into the rectum. Once inserted, they gradually dissolve. This releases medication that helps with inflammation, pain, and other symptoms of hemorrhoids.

How do hemorrhoid suppositories provide relief?

These suppositories release medicine right where it hurts. They shrink blood vessels and numb the pain. This brings comforting relief right to the sore area.

Are hemorrhoid suppositories effective for both internal and external hemorrhoids?

Though best for internal hemorrhoids, suppositories can offer some external relief. However, they excel at treating internal issues.

What types of hemorrhoid suppositories are available?

You can get over-the-counter (OTC) options like Preparation H. Prescription ones like Anucort-HC are also available. For a softer approach, herbal and DIY remedies use ingredients like witch hazel.

What are the key ingredients in medicated hemorrhoid suppositories?

These suppositories may contain phenylephrine, hydrocortisone, and anesthetics. They all work to decrease swelling, relieve pain, and heal.

How should I use hemorrhoid suppositories for best results?

Chill the suppository if it’s soft. Then insert it gently past the anal sphincter. Stay seated or lie down for 15 minutes afterwards. Try not to use the bathroom for an hour to let it work.

Are there any side effects of using hemorrhoid suppositories?

Side effects like irritation or allergies are rare. If you have major discomfort or a bad reaction, stop using them and see a healthcare professional.

Can natural remedies effectively treat hemorrhoids?

Natural remedies offer soothing relief but may not be as powerful as medicated ones. They work for mild issues but might not be enough for serious cases.

How long should I use hemorrhoid suppositories?

Use suppositories several times a day for about a week. Always follow the directions on the package or from your doctor to avoid problems.

When should I consult a healthcare professional regarding hemorrhoid treatment?

If OTC remedies don’t help, or if you have severe pain, bleeding, or strange symptoms, see a healthcare professional. They can offer stronger treatments if needed.

Source Links

  1. Hemorrhoid Suppositories: Are They an Effective Treatment? – Allied Digestive Health – https://allieddigestivehealth.com/hemorrhoid-suppositories-effective-treatment/
  2. How Can I Treat My Hemorrhoids? – https://www.templehealth.org/about/blog/how-can-i-treat-my-hemorrhoids
  3. Hemorrhoid Suppositories – Are They Really Helpful? | Advanced Surgical Physicians – https://www.toplinemd.com/advanced-surgical-physicians/blog/hemorrhoid-suppositories-are-they-really-helpful/
  4. Do Suppositories for Hemorrhoids Work? – https://www.healthline.com/health/suppositories-for-hemorrhoids
  5. Hemorrhoids – https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/understanding-hemorrhoids-basics
  6. All You Need To Know About Hemorrhoid Suppositories – https://healthmatch.io/hemorrhoids/hemorrhoid-suppositories
  7. Do Hemorrhoidal Suppositories Provide Relief? – https://doctorbutlers.com/blog/hemorrhoidal-suppositories/
  8. All You Need To Know About Hemorrhoid Suppositories – https://www.healthmatch.io/hemorrhoids/hemorrhoid-suppositories
  9. Hemorrhoidal-HC rectal: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing – WebMD – https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-11413/hemorrhoidal-hc-rectal/details
  10. Through Research and Testing, We Found the Best, Expert-Approved OTC Hemorrhoid Treatments – https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-over-the-counter-hemorrhoid-treatments-4172472
  11. Suppositories: Why You Need Them and How to Use Them – https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/suppositories-how-to-use
  12. Rectal Suppository: Positions, Tips, Side Effects – https://www.healthline.com/health/general-use/how-to-use-rectal-suppositories
  13. How to Use Hemorrhoid Suppositories: 7 Steps [Full DIY] – https://drnumb.com/blogs/hemorrhoids/how-to-use-hemorrhoid-suppositories
  14. Approach Considerations, Emergency Department Care, Conservative Management – https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/775407-treatment
  15. Clinical Pilot Study of Rectal Suppository Containing Combined Extract of Cissus quadrangularis Linn. and Acmella paniculata (Wall ex. DC.) R. K. Jansen in Acute Hemorrhoids – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8577889/
  16. Effectiveness and tolerability of rectal ointment and suppositories containing sucralfate for hemorrhoidal symptoms: a prospective, observational study – International Journal of Colorectal Disease – https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00384-024-04642-7